Grammar, Semantics and Dialects in Architecture Cover Image

Grammar, Semantics and Dialects in Architecture
Grammar, Semantics and Dialects in Architecture

Author(s): Alicja Cimała
Subject(s): Language studies, Language and Literature Studies, Architecture, Semantics
Published by: Komisja Nauk Filologicznych Oddziału Polskiej Akademii Nauk we Wrocławiu
Keywords: architecture; propaganda; semantics; grammar; dialects; language; metaphor; pattern language; form language; Gothic style; Nazi Germany; Jesuits

Summary/Abstract: Many aspects of architecture (style, ornaments, urban planning etc.) are symbolic in nature, resulting in similarity between the art of erecting structures and language understood as the relationship between signifé and signifant. Hence, architecture has its own grammar, semantics and dialectic variants. The grammar is expressed in the context of articulation form and pattern language. The semantics can be found in the relatively more superficial aspects like metaphors likening this branch of art to books or the owners of specific buildings in their appearance or demeanour. Such an approach is shared across centuries and can be found for example in ancient and Victorian texts. Additionally, the message conveyed by buildings and structures might serve as a form of propaganda while many elements like styles, ornaments and locations depend on the ideas expressed by the architects and the founders. This aspect is common to various ideas, beliefs and societies, whether consciously or subconsciously. Moreover, the realisation of different styles of architecture varies depending on the times and the specific needs of the community in which a particular building is erected in the same way language may vary depending on similar factors. Thus, architecture presents the same qualities that are expressed by various dialects

  • Issue Year: 2019
  • Issue No: 8
  • Page Range: 73-80
  • Page Count: 8
  • Language: English